+ How much do treatments cost?

Please visit this page for the menu of services: Services

+ Do you accept insurance?

We are no longer billing insurance carriers. You are welcome to pay using your FSA or HSA.

+ Does acupuncture hurt?

Not usually. You may feel a pricking sensation, but only for a brief moment. Many patients don't feel a thing. The needles are very fine, single use and sterile. There is no solution of any sort in or on the needles.

+ What can I expect at my first acupuncture appointment?

You will meet with Dr. Zelina, after filling out your intake forms beforehand, and she will perform a comprehensive health assessment, which involves many detailed questions regarding the state of your body, diagnostic methods such as checking your tongue and taking your pulse, and finally performing the treatment. The treatment can include acupuncture, herbal prescriptions, cupping, moxibustion, food therapy, lifestyle advice, body work and/or other treatment modalities your provider may deem necessary, or a combination of any of these. Your provider will always discuss any treatments with you before they are performed. You will also receive a custom AcuVida Wellness Plan to follow at home.

+ How long are appointments?

Generally, the first visit is the longest and can take about 60 minutes. Follow up visits last between 30-60 minutes.

+ How can I prepare for my acupuncture appointment?

If you have any recent and related lab results, diagnostic reports or other reports from other medical providers, bring those in as it is helpful for Dr. Zelina to have as much information as possible. If you are taking medications or supplements, bring a list with the dosages as well.

It's always a good idea to eat a light meal before your treatment as it not advisable to perform acupuncture on an empty stomach; it may cause undesirable side effects such as dizziness or lightheadedness. Arrive on time so you can feel relaxed and enjoy the treatment.

+ What should I wear?

Something comfortable and loose. Usually, your legs and back may need to be exposed for the treatment, so it might be a good idea to wear some loose, stretchy pants that can comfortably be rolled up. Short sleeve or sleeveless tops are also a good option. You may receive a back treatment, in which case, be prepared to take your shirt off. Also be prepared to take shoes and socks off.

+ What should I do or avoid after my treatment?

Stay hydrated and drink lots of water. Try to avoid strenuous activity for that day and allow yourself to relax. Also avoid stressful environments.

+ What is cupping?

Cupping (ventosas in Spanish) is a traditional form of healing that uses glass cups to create suction with fire. This technique helps to soothe sore and achy muscles, purge toxins from the body, increase blood and lymphatic flow. The treatment also helps clear stagnant energy, as well as relieve inflammation. It is especially helpful for chronic or acute back pain, sprains, strains, and for detoxification. This type of treatment is part of traditional medicine from Latin America and Asia, and has been used for thousands of years and is completely safe. Please note that, although this is not a painful procedure, a very common side effect of cupping is very visible bruising at the site of treatment. This bruising occurs due to a rupture of capillaries close to the surface of the skin, which initiate a detoxification process. Because the benefits largely outweigh this risk, patients don't usually have a problem with it.

+ What type of medicine do you practice?

Dr. Zelina is a Doctor of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this falls under the umbrella of Eastern Medicine. All acupuncturists have formal training in TCM and Western Medicine. However, I integrate different forms of medicine into my practice. My other studies include Traditional Mexican Medicine (Curanderismo), Yoga and Ayurveda, Mayan Medicine, Plant Medicine (Yerberismo), Meditation, Energy and Spiritual Healing. I have a strong emphasis on food therapy as a means of healing, and often incorporate this into my treatments.

+ Do acupuncturists provide other services?

Few people are aware that an acupuncturist has also received rigorous training in Herbology, and they can prescribe and formulate custom herbal formulas which, when combined with acupuncture, work synergistically to achieve optimum results. An acupuncturist's scope of practice includes: acupuncture, cupping, moxibustion, Asian massage, Gua Sha, herbal prescriptions, and nutrition advice. If you are curious about other modalities, just ask!

+ What are the qualifications of an acupuncturist?

Every licensed acupuncturist holds (at least) a master's degree from an accredited school of acupuncture. In addition, every acupuncturist must go through a rigorous screening and board examination(s) in each state they want to practice. In some instances, acupuncturists hold other licenses, hold doctorate degrees and/or may be certified through the national governing body of acupuncture. You can always verify an acupuncturist's license on the state acupuncture board website or ask to see it (it should be posted in a conspicuous place). Dr. Zelina Medina is licensed by the California Acupuncture Board and received her Doctorate in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. She has also been designated with Diplomate of Oriental Medicine by the National Certification Commission of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).

+ What forms of payment do you accept?

Cash, Credit or debit card, FSA, HSA are also accepted. Payment is due at time of service.